Strathern for council

Gresham voters are confronted with a pleasant dilemma in the race for City Council Position 4.

Both candidates - Richard Strathern and R.H. 'Bob' Pung - have solid records of community involvement and plenty of time to devote to a volunteer council post. In an admittedly close call, our endorsement goes to Strathern, because we believe his previous private-sector experience as a human resources director would be valuable on the council.

Pung has the lengthier resumé for public service, including a large body of regional work on transportation issues and on behalf of the disabled. Strathern's volunteerism has been more narrowly focused in Gresham, including a stint on the City Council's Fire Advisory Committee.

Both candidates are disabled and would bring a greater sensibility to the council on issues affecting the disabled population. We'd be happy with either Pung or Strathern, but, based on his extensive human-resources background, recommend Strathern for Council Position 4.